Understanding when to replace your furnace gas valve is an essential part of keeping your home comfortable, protected and cost-effective. The gas valve is an often overlooked part of your heating system—and without it, your furnace simply won’t work.

In this blog, Classic Air will break down the key signs of a bad gas valve. Whether you’re troubleshooting a potential problem or just want more information about how a furnace works, this guide for Columbus, Ohio, homeowners will help you recognize the need for furnace gas valve replacement—and how to reach out to the trusted team at Classic Air.

What is a Furnace Gas Valve and Why is It Important?

To start, it's important to know what a furnace gas valve is and what it is responsible for. The furnace gas valve controls the flow of natural gas or propane into the unit's burner assembly, providing the fuel necessary for the combustion process to occur and produce heat. If gas isn't flowing, a gas-powered furnace won't give off any heat.

Also an important safety feature, the furnace gas valve is designed to shut if a problem is detected—preventing a potentially dangerous gas leak. A typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10–20 years. While replacement price depends on the model of furnace and if any other service is required, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of $300 to $800.

Your Furnace Won't Ignite

One of the signs you may need to replace your furnace gas valve is if the furnace is not igniting or if the pilot light won't light. Gas provides fuel for the flame. Without enough gas flow through the system, a furnace can't ignite. Sometimes, homeowners also hear that the igniter clicks but there's no flame.

However, a furnace not igniting or a pilot light that won't light or stay lit also could be signs of  other mechanical issues, such as a faulty flame sensor, a malfunction in the thermocouple or low gas pressure. If you notice these signs, it's important to contact a certified HVAC technician for an inspection. They'll safely determine whether the problem a thermocouple vs gas valve issue, or if there's another reason your furnace won't light.

Gas Leak

One major sign of a malfunctioning furnace gas valve is a strong odor of gas in your home. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance concern—it’s an urgent safety risk. A gas leak can create a fire, explosion or even CO poisoning. If you smell gas, get everyone out of the building quickly, call your gas company or 911, and then reach out to Classic Air for emergency furnace repair.

Your Furnace Keeps Starting and Stopping

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling describes when a furnace turns off and on frequently rather than turning on and continuing through its cycle as usual. This might be occurring because a faulty furnace gas valve can cause inconsistent gas flow. The valve failure also could cause your furnace to power off to avoid causing a gas leak.

However, sometimes furnace short cycling is caused by other mechanical issues, so it's important to call a professional HVAC technician for evaluation and possible furnace repair. 

What to Do When Your Furnace Gas Valve Isn't Working?

If you think your furnace gas valve isn’t working properly, it’s crucial that you take action immediately.

First, turn off the gas supply to avoid additional danger, then shut down your furnace. Don’t try to repair the valve without a professional. DIY gas valve repair can create a deadly gas leak if not done right and also has the potential to void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or isn't working for another reason—gas valve repair isn’t a DIY job. Besides, when it comes to comparing options between gas valve repair and gas valve replacement, it's almost always recommended to replace a gas valve instead of fixing the broken one. 

Call Classic Air to Be Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Columbus, Ohio, Chill

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Columbus, Ohio, HVAC company—Classic Air. Our HVAC experts know just what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll diagnose the issue, perform the gas valve replacement safely and ensure your heating equipment is running smoothly. To save even more power, we can even match your system with one of our smart thermostats or connect you with furnace installation service to help you replace your old, unsafe furnace.

Don’t compromise your safety or comfort. Call 614-739-1627 today for gas valve replacement services from Classic Air.